Gran Canaria' s hiking routes are one of the island's great attractions. There is something for all tastes, physical condition and ages, including many that are easy and comfortable enough to do with children.
Introducing children to hiking is a great way to have fun with them and to instil in them a love of nature that will probably last a lifetime. Here are some ideal walking routes in Gran Canaria for the whole family.
Hiking Routes in Gran Canaria
Many of Gran Canaria's trails are perfect for a pleasant day out in the countryside with the family. Despite the rugged terrain, your children will be able to walk them without any problems.
1. Hiking in the Tilos of Moya
This is one of the most suitable hiking routes in Gran Canaria for children. It is just 2 kilometres long and runs through one of the last laurel forests on the island.
This is a walk that will allow your family to get to know the different species of trees and plants that make up this type of forest.
This circular route starts at the Centro de Interpretación de los Tilos de Moya.
2. Ravine of the Kestrels
A picturesque hiking route that is perfectly accessible to all levels. It runs alongside an irrigation channel and along the way it is possible to see up to three waterfalls, green landscapes of radiant beauty and a large number of native birds.
The Cernícalos Ravine is part of the Los Marteles Nature Reserve and its most demanding part is the one that reaches the first waterfall.
It is a route that can be done in about 2 or 3 hours and is suitable for older children. The starting point is the car park of the Los Arenales picnic area, in Lomo Magullo, in the municipality of Telde.
3. Bandama Caldera
This beautiful corner of Gran Canaria has two circular hiking trails: one that goes down to the bottom of the caldera and another that goes around the ridge of the Pico de Bandama volcano.
Both trails are beautiful and quite easy, although the first one is more demanding because it has a steep slope with some slippery areas. The views from the viewpoint of Pico Bandama are some of the most spectacular on the island.
The route usually takes about 2 hours and starts at the Bandama farmhouse, passing through an iron gate located a few metres from the car park.
4. Las Niñas Dam
La Presa de las Niñas is a wonderful corner of Gran Canaria where you can walk among pine forests and a large number of native plants.
Located in the municipality of Tejeda, it has a popular recreational area where you can camp, spend the day having a barbecue or practising sports such as paddle surfing and kayaking.
From the recreational area there are several routes, such as the one that goes to the Salto del perro reservoir or to the Chira dam (the latter is a little too high for children).
Other hiking routes in Gran Canaria
Other popular hiking routes in Gran Canaria include the Barranco de las Vacas ravine, Charco Azul de Agaete and Roque Bentayga. Enjoying the unbeatable panoramic views with the family is one of the most unforgettable memories you can take away from this paradisiacal island.
Visit this entry to see our family hiking routes on the island of Tenerife.
Photos: grancanaria.com, holaislascanarias.com.
